Sebastian Harper

Why did you choose this course?I don’t think there is any other choice, to be honest. I have been playing the guitar since I was 7 so music is all I have been really interested in since I was little and I want to improve my musicality and maybe get a career out of it. It was such a good choice to do this course. I want to improve every aspect of my music.

Why did you choose Kendal College?I had heard a lot of good things about it from other people. I went to sixth form at Windermere but did not really enjoy it so went to look at colleges in the area for Music and this was the best by far for everything, the facilities, the teaching and the atmosphere.

Is College like you had expected. If not, why?Some things I expected and some I didn’t all in a good way. There is a lot more independence than I thought which is a good thing. It lets you express yourself; a very important thing in music.

What do you most enjoy about College life?The facilities and social side it’s really friendly especially in this building, there’s always someone there for you and it's a nice relaxing atmosphere.

What opportunities have you had as a student at the College?The College Gigs are a different experience to what I have done in the past, they are really professionally done, and it’s a really good experience performing in front of a lot of people. Also, having a professional recording studio with really good technology in front of you that you can use any time for free is a great opportunity. It gives you a chance to improve your skills or record a song. The facilities impressed me at Open Day, all top quality stuff; it’s not the biggest place but it has everything you need and everything you want.

What is the teaching style like on your course?The teaching style is quite varied and quite hands on. We learn in the Studio, have performance and theory lessons. I finished my work experience at a music shop in Barrow and learned how a music shop runs and how to restring guitars, I probably wouldn’t have done it if not for college and it was a good place to spend my half term.

Can you describe a typical day at College?We cover a lot of different areas, starting with basic information then learning the more advanced information. It helps you develop the things you are interested in.

How would you describe your College experience so far?It’s been a great experience, we are only just halfway through first year and I’ve already come on a lot from the beginning.

What are you hoping to do after College?I want to go to university and feel it’s helping me get the skills I will need. I’m interested in more hands-on work such as music production or performance. Next year will show me what will be the best for me.

If you could give one piece of advice to people considering College, what would it be?Personally it was a big risk leaving sixth form halfway through and telling everybody I didn’t want to continue. But if you really want to do it but have doubts because you think it’s a risk and you are scared of committing yourself, then just do it, I don’t think you will regret it; I think you will regret it more choosing the safe side. Doing what you want to do is the best choice. Choose what you love, I did and I’m glad I did it. I like the atmosphere of the building and get on well with the other students.